Mission Possible
We humans have lived alongside Europe’s large carnivores since before the Ice Age. These iconic animals are a part of our natural heritage and have been woven into our culture, legends and identities for centuries. Today, the vast majority of Europeans want them to remain so.
A vital role in our ecosystems
Top predators shape nature around us. By regulating the numbers, densities and behaviour of deer and other wild prey, they influence grazing and browsing pressure. They also help clean up carcasses, limit the spread of disease, and provide food and energy for countless other species.
Competing for the same prey
For millennia humans, bears, lynx, wolverines, jackals and wolves have often competed for the same prey. Early humans especially admired the wolf’s hunting skills. In time, we domesticated the wolf and created the dog – an extraordinarily loyal and invaluable companion.
Livestock, humans & carnivores
Matters grew more complex when humans began breeding domestic animals – an easy target for other predators. Ever since, people have sought ways to protect their livestock, with varying degree of success. As human populations expand, wild places and wild prey are becoming scarcer, adding yet another level of challenges.
Living side by side in many more places
Large carnivores do not depend on wilderness, even if they prefer it. They can thrive in quite populated regions, as long as they can find food, shelter and are not persecuted. Across Europe, inspiring initiatives are showing how these animals can bring benefits, economic opportunities, pride and joy to local communities.
Our mission
We will seek out and share these important stories, to shed new light on ways to coexist with our continent’s most iconic animals. We aim to show that living side by side with nature is not only possible – but also the path toward a wilder, richer Europe.
